What I Did After Camp: Travel, Friends & Reverse Culture Shock
By Tegan Owen
Exploring NYC with My Camp Bestfriend
After camp ended, our camp dropped us off at Port Authority in New York City, and just like that, we were in one of the most iconic cities in the world! Me and my Bestfriend stayed in the city for around 4 days. We visited Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Central Park, and as many bagels and slices of pizza as we could find. It was a strange but exciting shift going from the non-stop routine of camp to having total freedom, but we made the most of every minute and soaked up the city’s energy.
Solo Trip to Florida
After NYC, my best friend flew back to the UK, and I decided to keep adventuring — solo. I flew to Clearwater, Florida, and finally ticked off a massive bucket list dream: visiting the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
I’ve wanted to go ever since I saw Dolphin Tale, over 13 years ago, so standing there in person was completely surreal. Travelling alone in the U.S. felt a little daunting at first, but it became one of the most rewarding parts of my summer. It gave me time to reflect, explore on my own terms, and prove to myself that I could do something outside my comfort zone.
Staying in Touch After Camp
One of the best parts of AmeriCamp is how strong the friendships are, and thankfully, they don’t end once camp does. Our bunk group chat stayed active well after we got home, which made the transition easier.
I’ve met up with my camp best friend a few times since, for coffees, catch-ups, and even a attended the MTV EMA Awards. Even more exciting? A few of us are heading back to camp again this year, so the reunion is already in motion. Having people you shared such a unique summer with makes reconnecting feel like picking up right where you left off.
Reverse Culture Shock
The weirdest part about coming home? Being on my own again. I went from being constantly surrounded by people, literally living and working together, to waking up without my camp crew just outside my cabin door. It was a tough change.
I found myself missing the smallest things, sharing daily highlights, chaotic meals, spontaneous game nights, and just always being around others who got it.
It took a couple of weeks to fully adjust, but I didn’t have long to sit still, I ended up moving to Canada for five months, something I never would’ve done if it weren’t for camp. AmeriCamp gave me the courage and independence I didn’t even realise I needed.
Through it all, I learned that confidence comes from the right environment, and that I just needed to be surrounded by the right people to start growing into myself.
Final Thoughts
Camp was so much more than just a summer job, it was a life-changing adventure. From unforgettable travel and new friendships to discovering who I really am, AmeriCamp helped me realise that there’s no limit to what I can do.
If you’re thinking about applying… do it. One summer can change everything.
